Virginia landlord repair timeline
How long does a landlord in Virginia have to repair?
The clock most states set starts at the tenant’s written notice. Here is what the statute says, with the official source. It is general information, not legal advice.
- What it sets
- After written notice, 21 days to remedy, or the lease can end at least 30 days after notice
- Statute
- Code 55.1-1220 and 55.1-1234
- Official source
- Code of Virginia 55.1-1234
Not an emergency service. For a fire, a gas leak or anyone in danger, call 911 or the gas utility.
What Virginia law says, line by line
Each line restates the text it cites. Check the current version before you rely on it.
After written notice, the landlord has 21 days to remedy, or the lease can end at least 30 days after notice.
Code 55.1-1234A breach that can’t be remedied lets the tenant give 30 days’ notice to end the lease.
Code 55.1-1234If the landlord intentionally repeats a breach after fixing an earlier one, the tenant can give 30 days’ notice.
Code 55.1-1234The tenant recovers reasonable attorney fees unless the landlord proves their actions were reasonable.
Code 55.1-1234
Checked October 21, 2026
Turn the statute into your own response times
City rules and your leases can be stricter than the state. Write your times as the strictest of the three.
- Count from when the tenant told you, because many deadlines start at notice
- Put heat, water, power and anything dangerous at the top, day or night
- Ask for notice in writing, and reply in writing, so the record exists if anyone asks
- Record every step with a time: the first reply, the booking, the visit and the confirmation
A question managers ask about Virginia
Twenty-one days to remedy a breach that materially affects health and safety, or the lease ends on the date in the notice, at least 30 days after it was received.
Managing in another state? Pick it hereThe same leak can have a different clock across a state line.
The clock starts at the tenant’s notice Ours answers at any hour